Is E constant in simple Gaussian diagram?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the behavior of the electric field [E] in the context of a simple Gaussian diagram with a spherical shape. Participants are exploring whether [E] is constant or varies based on the representation of arrows in the diagram.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to determine if the length and spacing of arrows in the diagram indicate whether [E] is constant or varies. Some participants question the conventions used in the diagram to represent [E].

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on conventions for representing electric fields in Gaussian diagrams. There is a request for a visual reference to better understand the original poster's description, indicating a collaborative effort to clarify the problem.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes the absence of a scanner to provide an image of the diagram, which may limit the discussion's progress. The description provided includes details about the arrangement and length of arrows, which are central to the inquiry.

ZedCar
Messages
353
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement



If you have a simple Gaussian diagram of spherical shape, and arrows pointing out from the centre indicating [E] how do you know if [E] is constant or if it varies?

Is it because the arrows are of slightly different lengths? (Though all eminating from the centre and going out past the circumference.) Does this indicate variation?

Or would variation be indicated by arrows in different areas being more tightly together than other areas?

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It depends upon what convention was used when the drawing was made.
 
Is there a standard convention for indicating whether [E] is constant or varies in a simple spherical Gaussian diagram?
 
Can you scan the diagram and post the image?
 
SammyS said:
Can you scan the diagram and post the image?

Unfortunately I don't have a scanner to hand.

But if I can describe it, it's simply...

A circle with arrows all pointing out from the same point at the circle centre, and all ending once outside the circle. They all seem evenly spaced apart from each other.

However, even though they all end once outside the circle, some of them are slightly longer than others.
 

Similar threads

Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
20
Views
5K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
4K
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K